When steaming through an anchorage, what should a vessel master avoid?

When steaming through an anchorage, a vessel master should avoid crossing close ahead of anchored vessels because this maneuver poses significant risks to the safety of both the moving vessel and the anchored ones. When a vessel approaches another from the front, it is difficult for the master of the anchored vessels to assess the speed and distance of the approaching vessel, which can lead to potential collisions.

Additionally, anchored vessels may have limited maneuverability and may not be able to easily change their position or direction to avoid an oncoming vessel. This lack of reaction time can result in accidents, especially if the anchored vessels are not aware of the incoming traffic.

In contrast, crossing close astern provides a clearer view and better reaction time for both the moving vessel and the anchored vessels, reducing the risk of collision or accident. Keeping a good speed can help maintain control in certain circumstances, and transiting only on a flood tide is generally a matter of tidal conditions, which may not be directly related to the safety of navigating close to anchored vessels.